Three suspected kidnappers have been killed during a gun duel with operatives of the Delta State Police Command, following a rescue operation that led to the recovery of ₦5 million ransom allegedly paid for the release of two abducted women.
The operation, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, was carried out by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit after receiving a distress call about the abduction.
Edafe disclosed the development in a post on his official X handle, noting that swift response by the police helped track down the suspects and rescue the victims safely.
According to the police spokesperson, the incident began when two women were kidnapped by armed suspects, who subsequently demanded and collected a ransom of ₦5 million from their families.
Following the distress alert, operatives of the anti-kidnapping unit reportedly launched an intelligence-led operation to trace the suspects’ location.
After ensuring the victims were safe, police operatives stormed the suspects’ hideout, resulting in a fierce gun battle between both sides.
Three of the suspected kidnappers were shot dead during the exchange of fire, while others reportedly escaped with injuries.
SP Edafe said police recovered the ₦5 million ransom money from the scene, along with one AK-47 rifle allegedly used by the suspects during the operation.
He added that the recovered funds were later returned to the victims by the Commissioner of Police, who personally supervised parts of the operation.
The police also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle their network.
The Delta State Police Command said the success of the operation highlights the importance of prompt reporting of kidnapping incidents, which allows security agencies to respond quickly and increase the chances of rescue.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against kidnapping syndicates operating within the state and surrounding areas.
Kidnapping for ransom remains a major security challenge in parts of southern and central Nigeria, with criminal gangs frequently targeting motorists, commuters, and rural residents.
Security experts say sustained intelligence-led policing and community cooperation are key to reducing the incidence of abductions.
The police have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to flush out remaining members of the gang, while also strengthening surveillance across flashpoint areas in Delta State.
